Here’s how I handle it: Step one, ask for the quote in writing. Step two, check if there’s an expiration date—most of mine have been good for 30 days, unless we’re in some wild market swing (like that lumber fiasco... my wallet still cries thinking about it). If a contractor says “24 hours only” without a solid reason, I just tell them I need more time or walk away. Feels like a sales tactic more than anything legit.
If a contractor says “24 hours only” without a solid reason, I just tell them I need more time or walk away. Feels like a sales tactic more than anything legit.
I’m with you on the 30-day standard—unless prices are actually jumping overnight, there’s no reason for that kind of pressure. The only time I’ve seen a legit short window was during that insulation shortage last year (suppliers were jacking up prices by the week). Otherwise, if someone’s pushing for a signature in 24 hours, I get suspicious. My spreadsheet of quotes has saved me from more than one “act now” pitch...
That spreadsheet idea is smart—wish I’d started doing that sooner. I get why some contractors want to lock in prices, but unless there’s a real supply crunch, 24 hours just feels off. When we had that big hailstorm last spring, prices did jump fast, but even then most quotes were good for at least a week. Ever had someone actually honor an old quote after the price went up? I’ve only seen it once, and it was a small local guy who said he’d rather keep his word than make a few extra bucks.
I get wanting to keep prices fair, but I’ve actually been on the other side—had a contractor stick to a week-old quote, then later tell me he lost money because the cost of materials shot up overnight. I felt kind of bad, honestly. Around here (midwest), weather can mess with supply chains fast, so I get why some folks tighten up their timelines. Still, 24 hours seems tight unless there’s a real emergency. Maybe a middle ground would be better—like, 3 days?
- 24 hours feels like a flash sale, not a quote.
- I get that prices jump, but most folks need at least a day or two to think things over—especially if it’s a big job.
- Around here (also Midwest), weather’s wild and lumber can double overnight... but three days seems fair.
- Had a guy once try to change the price after two days—felt sketchy.
- Maybe just be upfront: “Hey, this is good for 72 hours unless the world ends.” That’d work for me.
